Lemongrass essential oil is known for its health benefits all around the world. It comes from a lemongrass plant which is typically grown in tropical and subtropical regions. The oil is typically pale yellow and has a fresh lemony scent.
It has been used by people for treating pain, aiding stomach problems, fevers and is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. In this article, I am going to highlight the top benefits of lemongrass essential oil.
Benefits of Using Lemongrass Essential Oil
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Fights Bacteria
Did you know that lemongrass essential oil can inhibit bacterial growth? Well, it does as per a study done in 2016; it fights off pneumonia and blood infections causing bacteria. Owing to its magic, it is used as a complementary therapy along with traditional medicine.
It also helps keep your gums healthy and is a great non-surgical dental therapy for people suffering from gum diseases. However, it is important to continue the treatment suggested by your doctor and use lemongrass essential oil as a complementary treatment
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Helps with Inflammation
Health issues such as arthritis, diabetes, and cancers are often caused by chronic inflammations. According to a study done on mice in 2014, lemongrass helped to reduce inflammation with mice having fungal infections. It helps to treat skin inflammations as well.
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Combats Fungal Infections
Lemongrass essential oil fights fungal infections such as Candida Albicans, yeast infections, and thrush. However, more studies must be done to confirm its effects on human beings.
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Rich in Antioxidants
Lemongrass essential oil is rich in antioxidants which help fight free radicals and oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidants help to minimize the signs of aging, fight free radicals, and eliminate the risk of harmful diseases.
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Helps with Stomach Issues
Lemongrass can help treat stomach issues. It helps treat stomach ulcers, diarrhea and relieves pain. If you struggle with stomach issues on a day-to-day basis, it is important to make lemongrass essential oils a part of your daily routine.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis
Lemongrass essential oil greatly reduces the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. A study was done in 2017 which had 30 people as participants who had rheumatoid arthritis. They were given 3 milligrams of lemongrass essential oils daily. All of the participants reported significantly less pain after 30 days.
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Relaxation
Lemongrass essential oil is known for its relaxation properties. That is the reason it is used in massages and oil therapy. It is great to accommodate in your massage practices for relaxing your muscles and getting rid of stress. It is supposed to reduce diastolic blood pressure which has great calming effects on the nervous system.
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Helps with Migraines and Common Headaches
If you struggle with migraines, then lemongrass essential oil will be your best friend. Simply take a bit of oil and rub it on your temples whenever you experience a headache. It will calm your senses and will treat your headache in an instant.
Some Ways to Use Lemongrass Essential Oil
Here are some ways to use lemongrass essential oil for maximum benefit:
- If you are a fan of aromatherapy, try lemongrass oil this time. Simply add a few drops of lemongrass essential oil into a diffuser and see the magic happen.
- It is important to keep in mind that one should avoid applying undiluted lemongrass essential oil directly onto your skin. First dilute it with a carrier oil such as coconut, olive oil, and then use it.
- You have to mix it with other career oils such as jojoba, coconut, and olive oil and then use it. The Food and Drug Administration has also declared lemongrass essential oil safe to use if diluted properly.
- Steam has great health benefits especially when you struggle with health issues such as asthma, nasal congestion, and cough. A great way to use lemongrass essential oil is to put a few drops in warm water and then inhale the steam. It will give you great relief.
- You can also purchase an oil diffuser from the local market and make your home feel fresh at all times. One must keep in mind that essential oils should be carefully used around children, infants, pregnant ladies, and pets.
Note: Essential oils are inflammable. Hence, it is important to keep them away from an open flame at all times. Also, keep it away from children’s reach.
Are There Any Potential Side Effects of Using Lemongrass Essential Oil?
Yes, lemongrass essential oil can cause skin irritation in certain people. Hence, we always recommend doing a patch test before using it on your body and skin. Here is a list of precautions you must take:
- Avoid using lemongrass essential oils if you struggle with eczema and other skin conditions.
- Avoid applying the oil on damaged skin or cuts
- Do not apply the oil directly to your skin. Dilute it with other carrier oils.
- Avoid putting oil in the bathtub or using near eyes, mouth, ears, or membranes.
Conclusion
Several types of research have shown the benefits of lemongrass essential oil for human health. Loaded with antifungal and antibacterial, this powerful antioxidant can do wonders if used correctly. One must bear in mind that it is never recommended to quit the medication suggested by your doctor and use lemongrass oil as the sole treatment.
Always use it as a complementary treatment to aid the healing process instead of relying on it completely. Last but not the least, do not use it without diluting it with carrier oils.
I sincerely hope you found this article helpful. If you have any other questions about the benefits, uses, and side effects of the oil, leave them down in the comments section below and we will answer those right away.